TRAVEL GUIDE TO THE FRIULI VENEZIA REGION OF ITALY

Historically, parts of the Friuli Venezia region has been part of Austria, then later part of Yugoslavia before becoming a part of Italy. The region that is now known as Friuli Venezia Giulia was created as an autonomous Italian region in 1963. As you travel the region you will see the influences of these historic powers have had over the area even today.)

From north to south there is a big difference in the appearance of the region. Heading north from the coast there are large lagoons to cross that are popular with nature lovers and an extensive area of flat agricultural terrain. Then you enter into the hills of the Prealps where vineyards cover the central area and the Carso plateau along the border with Slovenia. Further, to the north and east of you reach the high mountain scenery of the Julian Alps and Friuli Dolomites that dominate the horizon in Friuli-Venezia Giulia.

Provinces of the Friuli Venezia Giulia Region of Italy

Because of this mixed geography the region has both popular coastal destinations in the summer and mountain ski resorts in the winter, as well as year round opportunities to enjoy the impressive scenery.

WHAT TO SEE IN THE FRIULI VENEZIA REGION

Friuli-Venezia region is away from the more popular destinations in Italy and has plenty to discover. The region is an ideal destination for those wishing to avoid the tourist hordes and explore somewhere new.

Among the highlights in Friuli-Venezia Giulia, is the town of Udine, and the nearby towns of Spilimbergo and San Daniele. As well, the colourful town at Gorizia and the Lombardy style town at Cividale del Friuli are great places to visit. Other suggested destinations include the towns of Grado and Pordenone, while the Carso valley and plateau contains several attractive hill towns and villages that are quite isolated.

Also in the region are some impressive Roman ruins at Aquileia, reminding is of the towns important role as a centre of Roman Italy and now a UNESCO protected heritage site. The City of Trieste is the known for its cafe and the being where James Joyce lived for a time should be a must. Near Trieste be sure to visit the Grotte Gigante, the largest (visitable) cave system in the Europe.

If you like beaches the region is border by the western part of the Adriatic coast with sandy beaches and popular resorts such as Lignano Sabbiadoro and Grado. While the section of coast to the east of Monfalcone has more dramatic scenery with cliffs of the Gulf of Trieste. Here you will also find the castle at Miramare, Trieste and the old harbour at Muggia.

In the northern part of the region there are a few popular ski areas that include Forni di Sopra, Piancavallo, Ravascletto and Tarvisio. The northern part of the Region borders Austria with whom Italy fought against in WW1. The old battle grounds of Caporetto, the Redipulgia memorial and area near the Piave are all interesting sites to visit.

OUTDOOR RECREATION IN THE FRIULI VENEZIA REGION

TOWNS OF THE FRIULI VENEZIA REGION

Trieste – Capital of Friuli-Venezia Giulia, important port city in region, formerly part of Hapsburg Empire, beautiful architecture along waterfrontUdine – Historic capital of Friuli region, beautiful historic center and churches, near the UNESCO-designated Aquileia Roman excavations and cathedralPordenone – City near Veneto border, home to 12th-13th century churches and palaces as well as the remains of a Roman villaGorizia – City near Slovenian border, primarily medieval historic center, much of the city was heavily damaged during World War I but has been rebuilt, sights include a castle, cathedral, and 17th century churchLignano – Beach resort town on Adriatic, also known as Lignano SabbiadoroGrado – Beach resort and spa town on peninsula between Venice and Trieste, near ancient Roman city of AquileiaPalmanova – Small city near Udine, 16th century walls (still intact) form a 9-pointed star patternTarvisio – Alpine ski resort town near borders of both Austria and SloveniaMonte Zoncolan – Popular mountain peak in Alpine part of region, commonly used in bike races, popular ski destination